College of Health Professions

Thursday, May 21, 2026 @ 3:00pm

Academic Processional

“Processional of Joy”

Invocation

The Rev. Jen Rude, University Pastor

Greetings

Joanna Gregson, Provost, Professor of Sociology
Allan Belton, President
David Ward, Dean of the College of Health Professions

Reflection

Jaylene Ramirez Velazquez, Student Speaker

Commencement Address

Laurie A. Soine, ’88, Ph.D., ARNP
Chief of Advanced Practice Nursing, UW Medical Center
PLU Board of Regents

Conferral of Degrees

Allan Belton, President

Closing Comments

Allan Belton, President

Prayer and Benediction

The Rev. Jen Rude, University Pastor

Recessional

“Processional of Joy”

Chief of Advanced Practice Nursing, UW Medical Center

Dr. Laurie A. Soine is a distinguished nurse leader recognized for her strategic vision and collaborative leadership style. She has dedicated her career to advancing the nursing profession and strengthening the advanced practice nursing workforce. Her work reflects a deep commitment to building interprofessional clinical teams, promoting evidence-based practice, and ensuring patient- and family-centered care.

Dr. Soine serves as the Chief of Advanced Practice Nursing at the University of Washington Medical Center, where she also practices as a Nurse Practitioner in cardiology.

She earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing and a Bachelor of Arts in Communication from Pacific Lutheran University, and both a Masters of Nursing and a Ph.D. in Nursing Science from the University of Washington. Dr. Soine has also served on Pacific Lutheran University’s Alumni Board and Board of Regents.

Jaylene Ramirez Velazquez

Jaylene Ramirez Velazquez is a candidate for the degrees in Social Work and Hispanic Studies, with a minor in Psychology. A Lakewood, Washington native, Jaylene credits her decision to commit to PLU to a pivotal high school visit where she met faculty from Wellbeing Services and Resources (WSR) and witnessed the genuine care and passion the university offers first-generation students. Throughout her time at PLU, she has grown personally and professionally, finding deep pride in stepping out of her comfort zone to host a psychosocial Latinx group and engaging in various campus jobs and internships. Following graduation, Jaylene will continue her studies in PLU’s Master of Social Work program, supported by the HRSA Grant Scholarship. Her goal is to become a licensed clinical social worker, and she will continue her internship at WSR as she works toward becoming a clinical fellow to support others in meaningful, direct ways.